To repeat or not to repeat! GRE question

gatormac2112 · Aug 22, 2006

It really depends on the program. If you are strong in grades and experience then I would say don't worry about it. If you are applying to UAB I don't think they care about GRE scores, just so long as you have the minimum...I know people that got in with sub-minimum scores.

sandman1914 · Aug 23, 2006

At the end of the day it is the score you feel comfortable submitting with your application. If a score just barely over the minimum sits well with you, go ahead and stick with that score. But knowing how competitive it is to get into programs and seeing how you feel you have a percieved weakness, why not try to improve upon it. What is the worst it will cost you, a few hours of your time and the cost of the test.

dfk, RN, CRNA · Aug 23, 2006

I have taken the GRE again and this time made over the minimum (1030/4) that most programs require. I believe I am competitive in every aspect but the GRE. It seems the GRE is my Achilles heel. Any advice from future, current, and past CRNA students is welcome.
Thanks!

i too agree that it depends on what school you apply to.

however, i was

when asked about my score, i assured them it in no way reflected my ability to speak and write.

remember, it's the overall picture, not just one parameter.

piper_for_hire · Aug 24, 2006

From my experience, a high GRE score is really important - especially on getting you off on the right foot in your interview. I'd consider taking it again.

-S

dfk, RN, CRNA · Aug 24, 2006

From my experience, a high GRE score is really important - especially on getting you off on the right foot in your interview. I'd consider taking it again.
-S

sorry piper, et. al...

i can't agree.. there's a reason why applications state a "minimum", which is usually 1000. if people were deterred from applying because they didn't have this "minimum", i guess i might have never got in.

i think ccrn, yrs of icu experience, acls teacher, published, extracurricular activities, good interviewer, etc... have more weight in the end than someone with a high gre and whatever.

just my opinion, but a 1034 isn't all that bad...

piper_for_hire · Aug 24, 2006

Hey - all I know is that my GRE scores were mentioned several times during the interview process and I got in. Sure made me feel like the scores made a difference.

-S

sorry piper, et. al...
i can't agree.. there's a reason why applications state a "minimum", which is usually 1000. if people were deterred from applying because they didn't have this "minimum", i guess i might have never got in.
i think ccrn, yrs of icu experience, acls teacher, published, extracurricular activities, good interviewer, etc... have more weight in the end than someone with a high gre and whatever.
just my opinion, but a 1034 isn't all that bad...

sandman1914 · Aug 25, 2006

From what I have heard, schools like you to have a higher GRE score not not simply for the purpose of indicating your ability to complete the program, but more so to indicate your ability to pass a standardized test which you will take at the end of your program. The schools want to have a good track record for those passing the licensure exam on the first attempt.

flightgirlrn05 · Aug 25, 2006

Checking with the school first to see how heavily they rely on GRE scores for admission may be your best bet. Some programs don't even require GREs if your GPA is high. Others take the "whole picture" into consideration (i.e., experience, GPA, GRE results, reference letters, essay, certifications) to base their decisions. And perhaps some schools rely on the GRE scores more heavily when considering applicants for admission. Good luck!

Phishininau · Aug 25, 2006

Hey Bama...after being here a week, I should call and give you some insight.

japaho41 · Aug 26, 2006

sorry piper, et. al...
i can't agree.. there's a reason why applications state a "minimum", which is usually 1000. if people were deterred from applying because they didn't have this "minimum", i guess i might have never got in.
i think ccrn, yrs of icu experience, acls teacher, published, extracurricular activities, good interviewer, etc... have more weight in the end than someone with a high gre and whatever.
just my opinion, but a 1034 isn't all that bad...

I agree with dfk on this one. Some programs may see the GRE is just a formality. I went with the score I had after two tries at the GRE and was admitted with a lack luster score.

Phishininau · Aug 28, 2006

Several people that I am in school with were admitted on probation, with GRE scores below the requirement. I think that if you have a good combination of GRE and GPA, if it is close, just let it go. The GPA and GRE will get you an interview and then your brilliance will shine through. BAMACCRN, you are a shoo-in...no worries.